The Best Doctors Blog
Ariana Colozzo is a Marketing Coordinator for Best Doctors, Inc. She graduated from Emerson College with a degree in Writing, Literature, and Publishing and also writes for the Somerville Times and the Best Doctors blog.
She has experience writing and copyediting for many different publications, including the Somerville Times, the Best Doctors blog, LaborPress.org, the Rehumanization project, the Improper Bostonian, The Cadeau Events blog, Hartz Pets blog, Anderson Floors blog, Atlas Magazine, Wilde Press, Generic Magazine, and the Berkeley Beacon Newspaper.
The Best Doctors Blog
Chronic pain is one of the most common conditions in America, and the most common cause of long-term disability, affecting 1 in 4 Americans-more than diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined. It's also one of the most expensive conditions, costing the American economy $635 billion each year.
Getting a cancer diagnosis can be one the scariest moments in your life-whether it's you, a family member or a friend who hears those words. Intense cancer treatments can have detrimental side effects, such as hair loss, infections, nausea and vomiting, kidney problems, fertility issues and so much more, but they're worth it to beat cancer.
A new study done by the Mayo Clinic has found nearly 9 out of 10 patients seeking a second opinion at Mayo go home with a different diagnosis-completely changing treatment plans and prognoses for some patients. The study, led by researcher James Naessens, Sc. D.
There are many barriers to diagnostic accuracy, like time pressures on physicians, availability of specialists and fragmented care. That's why it's crucial for patients to find the doctor who is right for them and their condition. Some of the characteristics often shared by best physicians are: Board-certified and up-to-date on the latest medical research.
The Centers for Disease Control lists diabetes as the seventh-leading cause of deat h in the U.S. at 76,488 people per year. However, a new study done by researchers at Boston University School of Public Health found that almost four times as many Americans die of diabetes than as reported on death certificates.
Employee benefits are one of the biggest expenses employers have-with health care costs topping the category. Many employers are forced to respond by pushing more costs to the employees. However, increasing employee contributions too much can hurt a company's ability to attract talent. Therefore, they must strike a careful balance.
Novartis, a Switzerland-based healthcare company, has unveiled what promises to be a groundbreaking new drug for some leukemia patients. The standard cancer treatments include radiation, chemotherapy and surgery, but some new options have entered the market in recent years. Some drugs target specific molecular changes, like Imatinib Mesylate, while others, like Novartis' drug, target the immune system.
It's no surprise that health care premiums have been rising steadily for years. For an average family, the annual premium has reached $18,142, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. A big part of the rise in premiums is due to specialty drug costs.
There are many barriers to diagnostic accuracy, like time pressures on physicians, availability of specialists and fragmented care. That's why it's crucial for patients to find the doctor who is right for them and their condition. Some of the characteristics often shared by best physicians are: Board-certified and up-to-date on the latest medical research.
Arthroscopic knee surgery is commonly performed to alleviate chronic knee pain. Doctors send a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, through an incision in the knee to see inside and operate accordingly. Depending on the damage, doctors may, for example, realign a kneecap or repair a torn meniscus.
High blood pressure, called hypertension, has become increasingly common-affecting about 85 million Americans. And it's a dangerous condition, even more so because it's often symptomless. Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the vessels as it flows throughout the body.
Mental illness remains among the most stigmatized of conditions, despite affecting nearly 1 in 5 adults and teens in America. It often isn't given the same weight as physical health, especially in the workplace. Though it should, considering only an estimated 17 percent of adults are in a state of optimal mental health.
A new study done by the Mayo Clinic has found nearly 9 out of 10 patients seeking a second opinion at Mayo go home with a different diagnosis-completely changing treatment plans and prognoses for some patients. The study, led by researcher James Naessens, Sc. D.
Learn how one of our clients used Best Doctors to improve outcomes, raise employee satisfaction and positively impact its bottom line. With misdiagnosis rates being so high - everyone will likely experience at least one medical error, according to the National Academy of Medicine - a large financial services firm knew it could save money and increase productivity by introducing an expert second opinion program.
In the U.S., the senior population is growing much faster than the population as a whole. By 2050, the number of Americans is expected to increase by 27 percent, while the population of adults over the age of 65 is expected to double. As your loved ones get older, finding care for them can be stressful.
The Somerville Times
The Honk! Festival is returning to the Somerville streets on October 6. For 12 years, Honk! has brought brass bands from around the world, giving them a voice to represent the causes that are important to them. This year, the 28 bands are coming from as far as Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
On Saturday, April 1, come to the Somerville Theatre for a night of a cappella with the 33rd annual Harmony Sweepstakes.
The goal of Community Cooks is to make sure no hungry or vulnerable neighbor goes without food, and to achieve that goal, they work with dozens of partner organizations and hundreds of volunteer cooks.
The Somerville Youth and Recreation Center (SYRC) is holding its annual action starting on Wednesday, February 1.
As people with disabilities are much more likely to face bullying, abuse and other significant barriers than those without disabilities, IMPACT:Ability works to empower these individuals by giving them the tools they need to lead safe and productive lives.
The holiday season is in full swing; Christmas music is on the radio, houses are strung with lights and everyone is scrambling to find the perfect gift for the family members and friends on their lists. But holiday shopping isn’t always easy, especially when the lists seem to get longer each year.
Hartz Pets
Hairballs are one of the not-so-cute things that come with owning a cat. Though cats are always grooming themselves, and swallowing fur is normal, if you're not helping your cat out, he could be taking in too much hair. In small amounts, the hair can be expelled when he goes to the bathroom.
When you make your gift list, don't forget to check it twice. You wouldn't want to leave your cat out of the holiday fun. Hartz knows what gifts will make your cat love you even more: Go gourmet Hartz® Delectables treats come in three kinds - hard treats, bisque and stew.
Your family wouldn't be the same without your dog, so why shouldn't he get to open a present under the tree like everyone else? Hartz has the list of the best gifts to keep him happy all year long. Play all day WithHartz® Tuff Stuff® Bolo™ you two can play fetch, tug-a-war, and everything in between.
Sometimes it's easy to overlook little changes in your dog's behavior that are caused by health problems. Because he can't tell you when he's sick, it's up to you to notice when his normal routines are off. Check with your Veterinarian if your dog is showing any of these seven signs: 1.
In 2012, Jan Brown realized that her true calling wasn't to care for the elderly, but to keep rescue greyhounds warm with hand-knitted sweaters. Four years after Brown started donating dog coats to greyhound shelters and opening her online dog clothing shop, she left her job as a caregiver to knit full-time.
In vitro fertilization isn't just for humans anymore. In July, seven healthy puppies were born by c-section to a female canine host, five with two Beagle parents and two with a Beagle mother and a Cocker Spaniel father in a study done by researchers at Cornell University and the Smithsonian Institute, marks the first successful IVF birth in dogs .
Pet snakes have always gotten a bad rap. Whether it's because of their their inability to cuddle, scaly skin, forked tongue or sometimes venomous fangs, there's a lot to make non-snake-lovers uncomfortable. When trying to convince your friends your pet snake isn't creepy, try using these three fun facts: 1.
For most of us, turkeys are the cold cuts in our sandwiches and the bird dolled up on a Thanksgiving day platter. But, for some, they replace dogs as man's best friend. If you'd like nothing more than to curl up with your pet turkey every night, here are five things you need to know: 1.
Corduroy the cat leads a simple life in Sisters, Oregon, with his owner, Ashley Reed Okura. According to CNN, he and Okura grew up on the family's 160-acre ranch, where she let him explore as he pleased .
Jack Frost will keep you and your pet on your toes during the cold months, but snow and ice aren't the only hazards than come with the wintry weather. There other manmade dangers that you need to watch out for as well: Antifreeze Antifreeze, or coolant, can leak from a car's radiator or a house's winterized pipes.
One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make in training is punishing their dogs. When you come home and find the trash torn apart, your first instinct may be to reprimand her, but she'll think she's being disciplined for her behavior in that moment, not for the trash all over the floor.
No matter how careful you are with your pet, sometimes he gets things he isn't supposed to have. This Halloween, make sure you and your pet are prepared in case of chocolate poisoning. Watch your flavors The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is to your pet.
Justin Lansford returned from Afghanistan in the spring of 2012 after being caught in an IED explosion , People Pets reported. He lost a leg, broke his back, ruptured his spleen and suffered from other injuries as well.
Dogs fights are dangerous, though preventable. With limited ways of making their discomfort known, in severe situations, dogs become aggressive. If a fight breaks out, remember that your dog is so stimulated that he will unknowingly attack you if you give him the chance. Keep both of you safe with these tips.
With the holiday season in full steam, you'll have to mail holiday cards before you know it, and wouldn't want to leave your fur baby out of the family photo. If taking pictures of your pet is a struggle, keep these five tips in mind: 1.
Kymberly and Jesse Chelf were packing up for their move from El Paso, Texas, to Fairbanks, Alaska, when their cat, Moosie, disappeared, The Associated Press reported. They searched every inch of the house, even staying an extra three days, but he was nowhere to be found.
You might think dogs are the only pets you can take for a walk, but some cats love the great outdoors. Indoor cats live longer than their outdoor counterparts, and but walking your indoor cat can enrich his life by letting him explore the outside without being overwhelmed, The Huffington Post pointed out.
The military has been employing dogs for decades as message-carriers, sentries, bomb detectors and more. Army Live explains that dogs are so important they're ranked as noncommissioned officers , which is a rank above their handlers, to avoid animal abuse. Although, far from suffering mistreatment, army dogs are prized companions.
If you're dog's coat is looking a little dull, eggs are an excellent way to get her looking her best again. The main reason for a lackluster coat is deficiencies in key nutrients, but according to Renegade Health, bathing your dog too often or skipping the brushing could dry out her coat as well.
John F. Kennedy airport is introducing a new feature: a full-service, luxury animal terminal called the ARK. Upwards of 70,000 animals fly in and out of JFK every year, and now every kind of animal can benefit from the lush accommodations the airport plans to offer next year, The Associated Press reported.
The age-old argument against cats is the apparent lack of affection they show, especially when compared to dogs. Dogs will jump all over you with their tails wagging until you give them a good scratch, wanting your love and attention every second of the day, but cats can only be bothered when they need something from you - or so you may think.
For pet owners, traveling can be stressful. As much as you want him or her to be, sometimes your dog isn't welcome on your family vacation to the Bahamas or your best friend back home doesn't let cats into her house, and now, you're faced with the task of finding a pet sitter.
Move over cats, dogs may have taken over the internet. Bark & Company , a subscription-based pet supply company, created BarkFeed , an "Instagram" for dogs only. Right now, BarkFeed is just available on the web, but with its increasing popularity, there are discussions about a mobile application , Today Pets & Animals reported.
When juggling kids, work and more, you might think you're too busy to care for a dog as well. This holiday season, however, is the perfect time to surprise your kids with the pup they've been begging you for. Though it may be a little more work for you, here are five benefits to adding a dog to your family: 1.
Sher Polvinale of Gaithersburg, Maryland, only gets the chance to leave her house about four times in a year. Her full attention is taken up by the two dozen resident dogs and 10-15 visitors staying at House with a Heart.
The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping and before you know December - and the snow - will arrive. The winter poses just as many risks to pets as it does humans, so you'll want to make sure your dogs and cats are protected against the harsh weather.
Your cat might not like water, so bathing her can be a challenge. Because cats self-groom, most won't ever need a bath. However, if your cat is old, overweight or long-haired, she may need your help every now and then.
Maybe you really like fish, or maybe you weren't ready for the work that a dog, cat, or other small animal would be. Either way, it's important to remember that contrary to what many think, fish also need regular care. Fish that are living in small, unfiltered bowls are constantly defecating and swimming in it.
When you're shopping around for a new pup this holiday season, make sure you get a healthy dog from a responsible seller. Puppy mills may seem cheap and convenient, but only at the expense of the the well-being of the animals they breed.
Sometimes, having a dog can feel a bit like living a living in an indoor winter wonderland - full of fur. Shedding is one things about dogs that no one likes, and many dog owners have given hope on controlling it.
Before you go out and get your new kitten, make sure she has everything she needs at home. Check out Hartz® for great quality cat products. You'll need: Carrier and collars: Though many don't crate their cats, carriers are crucial for visits to the Veterinarian and other times when leaving her out might be unsafe.
Your cat probably likes your food more than you do, but many foods won't satisfy her nutritional needs. Chocolate, alcohol, raisins and onions are some foods that you should especially avoid giving her, because they are harmful to her health. If you want surprise her with a treat, here are six safe foods she'll love: 1.
During the holiday season the bright lights, shiny ornaments and cat-size holes can make the Christmas tree your cat's favorite toy. If you're having trouble keeping him out of the tree this year, try these five cat-proofing tips: 1.
When your dog starts begging on Thanksgiving, it may be hard to resist those big eyes and scratching paws, but not everything is safe for him to eat. Hartz has the dish on all your holiday favorites. Turkey: The protein in turkey is great for your dog is small quantities.
Every day, thousands of Syrian refugees being forced to flee their war-torn homes, many with little more than the clothes on their backs. Though there is still no end to the civil war in sight, some Syrians are finding ways to stay positive amidst the tragedy.
Pets and their owners alike love the big city. However, there are lots of extra dangers to watch out for. Pavement: In the summertime, the pavement can get hot enough to fry an egg, bake cookies and hurt your poor pet's paws.
The military has been employing dogs for decades as message-carriers, sentries, bomb detectors and more. Army Live explains that dogs are so important they're ranked as noncommissioned officers , which is a rank above their handlers, to avoid animal abuse. Although, far from suffering mistreatment, army dogs are prized companions.
The best way to train your dog is with positive reinforcement. Discipline is often counterproductive and detrimental to both the pet-owner relationship and the dog's training. Vetstreet pointed out that in order for her to change, she has to be motivated to do so.
Going to the Veterinarian can be stressful for everyone involved. Here are five tips to make your trip go smoothly: Many pet owners try to get out of paying, especially for more expensive procedures. Vet fees are a normal part of owning a pet, just like paying for food or toys.
It's true, city dogs don't have the open space that country dogs get, but that doesn't mean they have to stay cooped up inside either. Many dog-friendly cities in the U.S. offer more than just Veterinarians and Groomers. They have the perfect mix of parks, activities and more so you'll never need to leave your dog at home.
Brushing a dog's teeth is something most pet owners never do, but your dog needs his teeth cleaned almost as much as you do. Dogs can get painful infections, damaged gums and life-threatening conditions in severe cases, Vetstreet pointed out.
With cold and flu season right around the corner, you may be wondering if your furry friends will catch your germs. Rest assured and snuggle up, because it's just about impossible. Cats and dogs can catch colds, but only from their own kind.
To clip or not clip can be a tough decision for many bird owners. Healthy Pets pointed out that clipping your bird's wings often keep him safe in your home. He won't be able to fly into walls, onto hot surfaces, into ceiling fans or other places that could be dangerous.
Guinea pigs may be low-maintenance pets, but they need regular grooming to stay happy and healthy. Here are some tips for keeping your furry friend in top shape: Bathing Many guinea pigs can get away with never being bathed.
There's nothing better after a long day than when you walk in the door and your dog can't keep his paws off you - unless you haven't clipped his nails in a while. Most dog's nails need to be trimmed at least once per month , Love that Pet explained.
Dog's ears are often overlooked, because you can't wash them during bath time. However, it's important make sure your dog's ears are just as clean as the rest of him. Bacteria, yeast and parasites thrive in your dog's curved ear canal and can cause infections, especially if there's anything else stuck inside, PetMD explained.
The first day off autumn kicks off shorter days, cooler temperatures and falling leaves, and pumpkin spice can be found again in coffee shops everywhere. The good news is your dog can - and should - enjoy pumpkin this season just as much as you.
Pets in Halloween costumes can be just as cute as children in costume, but unfortunately, not all pets like clothing as much as your kid. If your pet waits around for cold weather so you can finally pull his sweater and booties out of winter storage, then chances are he'll be up for a night in costume.
Facebook has long been used to reunite family and friends, so on Sunday, October 20, a blind resident of Vancouver, Washington, decided to give the social media site a try when his seeing eye dog, Beethoven, wandered away.
There is a lot to think about when getting a dog, especially if you're a little older and live on your own. The energy level of the dog is probably the most important factor to consider. Low-energy dogs won't need too many walks.
If you're not a fan of animals, you probably look with dread out of the corner of your eye as your best friend's cat or your boyfriend's dog trots over to lick, jump, or rub themselves all over you. Why, you wonder, would their pets want anything to do with you when you aren't even looking at them?
Swimming is not only a great source of exercise for your dog, but also a fantastic way to beat the heat. Water's higher resistance will make him work harder when swimming, but without the impact of running. Use these four tips to keep him safe: 1.
If you've always wanted a scaly pet, but never knew where to start, here are 4 questions to consider when buying your first reptile: 1. How big will it grow? Some reptiles, though small as babies, can grow very large.
Owning a pet can can give you endless hours of love and fun, but it's also a commitment that involves just as much work as it does play. Here are three ways you can be a responsible pet owner: 1.
Much like infants, newborn puppies are completely helpless. If they're separated from their mother, they'll need you to feed them. The pups need to be bottle fed every two hours for their first three days, even through the night. After that, you can wait three hours in between feedings and four hours at night, Pet Education explained.
Maybe you're not ready to give a dog a forever home, but you can still get involved! Fostering dogs can make huge differences in their lives and will cost you little more than your time and love.
If you're an animal lover, but not quite ready for one of your own, rejoice! There are lots of options out there that will give you your furry fill without the commitment. Volunteer at a Shelter Shelters are always in need of volunteers for their dogs, cats and small animals.
In an ideal world, your dog could accompany you everywhere you go, but this is rarely the case for most pet owners. Sometimes, you need a bit of extra help making sure your fluffy companion is getting the care and attention he needs.
Are you looking for something a little more exciting than a cat or dog? These four exotic pets are affordable, perfectly legal and super cool. 1. Bearded Dragon If you want to tell people you own a dragon and be completely serious, this is the pet for you.
Halloween is a fun night filled with candy and costumes, but it can also be dangerous and overwhelming for pets. Use these four tips to keep your pet safe and sound this Hallow's Eve: 1. Watch the door You'll be opening the door to strangers all night long, and you don't want your pet to slip out.
So, you've finally decided to take the plunge and get a kitten. Before you bring your new pet home, you'll need to make sure your house is properly cat-proofed. Love That Pet suggested touring your home on your hands and knees to get a true sense of what it will look like from your cat's perspective.
When socializing a dog, no matter how many strategies you have up your sleeve, many dog owners forget the most important part of the training. There are many ways to socialize a dog, which Hartz® talked about in Part 1 of this series, but when using these tactics, you need to make sure that your dog is comfortable and enjoying the experience.
Everyone loves spending quality time with their pets. If you're looking for something new for you and your dog, Hartz has got your back. Here's a round up of five of the country's best pet events: 1. Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon Does pup love the water?
Your dog may be cuddly and well-behaved when he's alone with you, but with strangers he's just the opposite. Puppies are in their most receptive periods from about three to 12 weeks, and after this they may become less open to new experiences.
Getting your cat to sleep until morning can be tough. The excessive nighttime meowing usually means she wants food or attention. However, it could also be a sign of a larger medical problem, especially if it continues during the day.
A trip to the Veterinarian isn't fun for you or your pet, but it's necessary for his health and well-being. In your puppy's first weeks, he will need to go the Vet about once per month to get his vaccinations, which are essential to protect him from diseases such as rabies and parvovirus, The Daily Puppy noted.
Heartworms can be spread every time your pooch gets bitten by a mosquito. Hundreds of these worms can live inside your furry friend before he shows any symptoms, causing severe damage to his heart, lungs and blood vessels that can continue to affect him long after he's cured.
The truth is, no one knows. Brian McLaren's Australian Kelpie, Maggie, has been faithfully guarding his dairy farm in western Victoria, Australia for about 30 years. McLaren remembers getting Maggie as a puppy when his 34-year-old son, Liam, was just four. Unfortunately, Maggie's ownership papers are long lost, so he can't prove her record-breaking old age.
Hartz Tick and Flea
Ear mites are tiny parasites that live off of your dog's ear wax and natural oils. However, though they prefer the ear canal, they can be found anywhere on Fido's body. When caught early, these extremely contagious pests rarely cause life-threatening infections, but when left alone they can damage your pooch's ears.
Insect growth regulators are common ingredients in many commercial insect prevention and treatment products, including flea products. There are two main types of IGRs: Juvenile Hormones and Chitin Synthesis Inhibitors, PetMD explained. Among the most common of commercial products, juvenile hormones IGRs copy and take the place of actual hormones in an insect's body, stopping the insect's ability to molt into an adult.
Lyme disease is easily found on humans by the iconic bulls-eye rash, but that doesn't work for your furry friends. If you've been outside, especially in long grass or woodsy areas, make sure to check your pooch, especially his head and neck area, for ticks every time he goes inside.
Coccidiosis is a contagious disease most commonly found in puppies. It's usually easily treatable, but serious cases could be fatal for your pup. The disorder is caused by single-celled parasites called coccidia. Many older dogs have coccidia living in their intestines, but puppies under six months haven't gotten the chance to build their immunity to the parasite, Pet Education explained.
A flea infestation isn't the only reason your pooch's skin may be irritated. If you've thoroughly checked him for fleas and can't find any, there are a few non-bug related causes to blame. Dry skin can be caused by his diet or environment, The Bark explained.
Ticks are dangerous hangers-on for your pooch. Not only do they suck blood, but they also carry lots of harmful diseases that could make her sick. Ticks are most commonly found in long grass, bushes and brush.
Flea season can be a stressful time for you and your pup, but that's not the only time those bloodsuckers can find her. You should be practicing prevention all year long. Fleas like warm temperatures best, so they flourish in the summertime when temperatures are regularly between 65 and 80 degrees.
Out of the thousands of species of fleas worldwide, around 300 of them can be found in North America. You may wonder which fleas are most likely to make a meal of your pup, and the answer may surprise you. In the United States, the most common flea affecting dogs is actually the cat flea, Dog Breed Info explained.
Fleas can cause a lot more problems for your pooch than just itching. If unnoticed, some infestations cause serious, life-threatening health problems, such as blood-loss anemia. In long-lasting or heavy infestations, fleas can suck so much blood that your dog becomes anemic from losing too much blood.
Other Projects
September 20, 2017 By Stephanie West When you or a loved one becomes sick, the first person you call is your doctor. But when it's 5 p.m. and the primary care doctor is gone for the night, what happens then?
A statement piece can add new life to any room. Whether you've found huge floral wallpaper or a bright green couch, you'll want to make sure it's the most important thing in the room. Be mindful of what is getting the unusual color, pattern or shape.